The Kegcreek Ranch Barn Dance Fundraiser, hosted by Kerry and Vince Gilroy on their family farm, brought in over $5,000 in support of the Stoughton Early Learning Facility.
The evening featured live entertainment from Saskatchewan artist J.J. Voss, dancing, cocktails, and a home-cooked meal that received rave reviews from guests. “It was a night filled with laughter. We had great people, delicious food, great entertainment, and the best part, no bugs,” said organizer Kerry Gilroy with a laugh.
The fundraiser included 85 auction items and strong support from local businesses, donors, and volunteers. While ticket sales were lower than hoped due to harvest, the long weekend, and other events, Gilroy said the people who attended made the night unforgettable. “Everybody was just having a great time, and everything was so organized. Overall, it was just an amazing night.”
Funds raised will go toward fencing and landscaping at the daycare’s new lot, ensuring children have a safe outdoor space to play. The cause is close to Gilroy’s heart; her daughter works as the assistant director at the facility. “Those little people all need a good place to run around and play,” she explained.
Despite the smaller turnout, the support exceeded expectations. “Amanda, the daycare director, told me they raised around $7,000 in all of last year. We were able to bring in over $5,300 in just about a month of planning,” Gilroy said. “We couldn’t have done it without everyone who donated and volunteered.”
The Gilroys, who celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary earlier this summer in the same barn, say they plan to make the Barn Dance Fundraiser an annual event, supporting a different organization each year. While they haven’t chosen an artist for next year yet, Gilroy is already gathering feedback from the community and hopes for an even bigger turnout.
“This was our first year, and I think we pulled it off pretty well,” she said. “We’ll definitely do it again.”